Kodak’s innovative 24X zoom Z980 Digital Camera

Apart from an image-stabilized 24X optical zoom lens, the US$400 Z980 has an innovative vertical shutter release that will be very useful for those who like to use the long zoom to pull their subjects in very close. “The clever design is a second shutter on the side that be-comes  the  shutter  button when  you turn  the camera  to  take a  landscape shot”,  says Gizmag’s Noel McKeegan  (pictured). “The navigation dial also becomes the zoom button when you do this, making it a very comfy camera to use both ways.”  There’s no accelerometer (next model?), so it doesn’t happen automatically. You have to flick a switch on the top of the body to engage this function. It’s also the  flagship  digital  camera  running the  company’s  new  Smart  Capture software, which automatically adjusts the  camera’s  settings  to  consistently deliver high quality images.

The new KODAK Z980 Digital Camera offers:

Kodak’s exclusive Smart Capture feature, which  analyzes  scenes  and adjusts  camera  settings  to  deliver beautiful  pictures  more  often;  26 mm  wide  angle/24X  SchneiderKreuznach  Variogon  Image  Stabilized Optical Zoom Lens; HD picture and  video  capture;  Vertical  shutter release and detachable vertical grip, for greater comfort and control when shooting scenes vertically; Hot shoe for the optional KODAK P20 flash; 12  MP  for  prints  up  to  30”x40”; Bright and detail-rich 3-inch indoor/outdoor  color  display;  Compatible with  KODAK  SDHC/SD Memory Cards; Available at US$399.95 MSRP from spring, 2009.

 http://www.gizmag.com/kodaks-innovative-24x-zoom-z980-digital-camera/10707/